Recorded live at the Beyond Borders International Festival in Scotland, this first episode of our Palestine Matters series brings together two highly respected diplomats: Martin Griffiths (former UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs) and Sir Vincent Fean (Trustee of the Britain Palestine Project, former British Consul-General in Jerusalem).
Hosted by our Executive Director Brian Brivati, the conversation explores Britain’s role at the UN General Assembly in September, where the UK has pledged to recognise the state of Palestine alongside France, Australia, Canada, Portugal and others.
Key themes include:
Why recognition of Palestine is not a “gift” but a legal entitlement.
The urgent humanitarian crisis in Gaza, including famine and displacement.
The responsibilities of the UK and other Western governments under international law.
How to move from condemnation of Israeli actions to meaningful political action.
The role of the UN and whether global diplomacy can still deliver justice.
What real accountability and hope could look like for Palestinians and Israelis alike.
At a time of profound crisis, this discussion asks how Britain and the international community can be held to their obligations — and how international law and conscience can be mobilised for peace.
👉 Palestine Matters is a joint podcast series from Beyond Borders Scotland and the Britain Palestine Project.